Supply Chains and the Internet of Things (IoT)

04/24/19

Is your supply chain connected using the Internet of Things (IoT)? Have you considered how sensor technology might be able to help your company minimize risk and improve efficiencies?

The future of IoT is here. Per SupplyChainBrain, “True supply chain integration and full end-to-end shipment visibility – the holy grail for freight shippers – is finally at hand, thanks to advances in artificial intelligence, predictive analytics, and the IoT.”

Do you know how IoT works? Essentially it is a system of web-enabled smart devices that use embedded process, sensors and communication hardwired to collect, send and act on data they acquire from their environments.

Per the recent Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM) SCM Now magazine article on how IoT can accelerate supply chains, connected cars, machines, wearables, home appliances, and other consumer electronics comprise the IoT.

What does this mean for your supply chain? ASCM shares that for supply chain professionals using the industrial IoT, the goals should be essentially the same: Connect to the supply chain and make everyday tasks simple, secure and productive. The sooner these objectives are achieved, the sooner mobility and IoT will transition from nice-to-have to business-critical. ASCM suggests you should start with your “why” to determine the problems you want to solve for first before selecting the right IoT partners.

Do you have a IoT strategy? Per ASCM, “The ability to transfer and update information at every touchpoint is an indispensable core competency. The most successful companies in the world are racing to modernize their supply chains and make them smarter. If your company isn’t already on that journey, start now.”

APICS Greater Detroit, the premier professional association for supply chain management, is proud to be a Premier Channel Partner for ASCM. We help over 150 Detroit area companies represented by our members, with educational and networking opportunities.

We look forward to helping you and your company in 2019! For additional information on our mission, education, and networking opportunities check out our website.

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